Cloudland Canyon State Park
00 review122 Cloudland Canyon Park Road, RISING FAWN, Georgia, 30738, United States
Cloudland Canyon State Park
$5.00 - $70.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
A ParkPass is required for all vehicles, with costs ranging from $5 for 1-12 passenger vehicles to $70 for vehicles with 31 or more passengers. Annual passes are available at a discount.
About this campground
Perched on the edge of Lookout Mountain, Cloudland Canyon State Park reveals Georgia's most dramatic natural theater—a spectacular gorge that plunges nearly 1,000 feet into ancient rock formations. Adventure seekers discover a wonderland of hiking trails that wind from panoramic rim views down to hidden waterfalls, while families find their perfect basecamp in cozy cottages or secluded walk-in tent sites beneath the stars.
Cloudland Canyon State Park offers diverse camping options, including RV and tent sites, walk-in sites, group camping areas, backcountry sites, and luxury accommodations such as yurts and cottages.
Historical SignificanceBeyond the canyon's natural wonders lies a tapestry of Cherokee heritage and frontier history. Nearby, the elegant Chief Vann House stands as a testament to Cherokee prosperity, while New Echota State Historic Site preserves the story of the Cherokee Nation's capital. These sacred grounds remind visitors that long before European settlers arrived, indigenous peoples called these mountains home.
Weather and SeasonsFour distinct seasons paint Cloudland Canyon in ever-changing colors. Winter brings crisp mountain air with temperatures hovering between 33-48°F, perfect for invigorating hikes without summer crowds. As spring awakens the canyon, wildflowers carpet the trails before summer arrives with warm 84°F days ideal for waterfall exploration. While rain showers occasionally sweep across the plateau, snow remains a rare winter guest, dusting the canyon rim perhaps once or twice a season.
ElevationRising from 800 feet at the canyon floor to nearly 2,000 feet along the rim, Cloudland Canyon offers a vertical journey through diverse ecosystems. This dramatic elevation change creates breathtaking vistas at every turn—from misty valley views at dawn to sunset-painted cliffs that seem to touch the clouds. Each elevation zone harbors its own unique plant communities and wildlife habitats.
Natural Features and SceneryNature has spent millions of years sculpting Cloudland Canyon into a masterpiece of stone and water. Sitton Gulch Creek continues its patient work, carving deeper into layers of sandstone and shale while creating thundering waterfalls that cascade over ancient ledges. Hiking trails trace both the canyon rim, where hawks soar at eye level, and descend to the shadowy floor where cool mists from Cherokee and Hemlock Falls refresh weary adventurers.
Geological RegionCloudland Canyon showcases the raw power of geological time along the western edge of Lookout Mountain, part of the vast Cumberland Plateau. Here, 200-million-year-old sandstone and shale layers tell Earth's ancient story in stone. The dramatic gorge, carved by the persistent flow of Sitton Gulch Creek, exposes these geological chapters like pages in a massive book, while waterfalls tumble over resistant rock layers that mark prehistoric shorelines and river deltas.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park is ADA accessible, providing facilities that accommodate individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeThere is a range of site sizes, with some sites noted as larger and more private (e.g., sites 10–17), while others are smaller but closer to amenities.
Sites PrivacySites vary in privacy. Sites 10–17 are noted for being more secluded, while sites 1–5 and 18–20 are closer to parking and bathrooms, offering less privacy.
Total Campsites72 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites overlooking the creek offer serene views and the soothing sound of water. For privacy, opt for sites 10-17.
Best CampsitesSites 1-5 and 18-20 are close to parking and bathrooms, while sites 10-17 offer more privacy. Site 19 is noted for privacy and proximity to the West Rim Trail.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Unknown
Check-out
Unknown
Stay Limit
Unknown
Guests Allowed Per Site
Unknown
Groups
The park has one group shelter and a 'Group Lodge.' Details about capacities are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are spread across loops with varying proximity to amenities such as bathrooms and parking.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made by calling 1-800-864-7275 or visiting the official website at http://gastateparks.org.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are first-come, first-served. User reviews highlight that weekends are busy, but weekdays have more availability.
Cancellation PolicyRules for cancellation are available at http://gastateparks.org/thingstoknow, but specific penalties or deadlines are not listed.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
GlampingGlamping options are available for visitors looking to enjoy nature with added comfort. These upgraded accommodations offer a unique blend of outdoor atmosphere and modern convenience.
Amenities available
Showers
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
The park offers a plethora of activities, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Activities include hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, disc golf, geocaching, fishing, and picnicking. It is also a popular venue for weddings with park approval.
Hiking
The park is renowned for its exceptional hiking opportunities. Trails range from easy walks to challenging rim and canyon floor trails. Key highlights include the Waterfalls Trail, featuring two cascading waterfalls, and the West Rim Loop, praised for its proximity to campsites. A user noted, 'We enjoyed how close we were to hiking the West Rim Loop. You can really just wake up and go!'Fishing
Fishing is available in a year-round pond, with restrictions during certain times (Labor Day through November 30). Specific details about fish species are not provided.Biking
Mountain biking is available, but specific trail details such as terrain and difficulty are not covered.Wildlife viewing
Birdwatching opportunities are highlighted in user reviews, but no specific species or designated areas are mentioned.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are detailed, although hiking and camping are year-round possibilities.Water Sports
Information about non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding is not available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated rings. Firewood is available for purchase at the park store.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife, rugged terrain, and freight train noise. As noted by a reviewer, 'The biggest problem with this campsite was the constant freight trains at night.'
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 47%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
For emergencies, visitors can contact the park directly at 706-657-4050 or the ranger station at the same number. Nearby emergency facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates are not explicitly mentioned.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are present, but specific details about locations and schedules are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresThe park includes two waterfalls and various creekside campsites.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention freight train noise, outdated bathroom facilities, and crowded weekends.
HostInformation about campground hosts was not provided.
Campground Map
122 Cloudland Canyon Park Road, RISING FAWN, Georgia, 30738, United States
Driving directionsLocated on GA Hwy136, 7 miles east of Trenton and exit 11 off I-59, or 50 miles west of Resaca and I-75 exit 320
The park is accessible via paved highways with clear signage. However, no specific mention of seasonal closures or challenging terrain was provided.Nearby places
Trenton (7 miles), Resaca (50 miles)
Nearby supplies
The nearest grocery or camping supply locations are not specified. Firewood can be purchased at the park store for $6 per bundle.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Cloudland Canyon State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The reviews for Cloudland Canyon State Park are overwhelmingly positive, with frequent mentions of the park's natural beauty, hiking trails, and well-maintained facilities. However, occasional complaints about noise from freight trains and older bathroom facilities in some areas are noted.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Users praised the park’s scenic beauty, spacious campsites, clean restroom facilities, proximity to hiking trails, and the soothing sound of nearby creeks. One user stated, 'Our campsite overlooked a...
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Common Concerns
Some users mentioned noise from nearby freight trains disrupting sleep at night. Others noted that the older bathrooms at certain sites were 'basic and full of creepy crawlers,' although this was...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend staying at sites 10–17 for more privacy and larger spaces. For convenience, sites 1–5 and 18–20 are closer to parking and bathrooms. Bringing water jugs is advised for sites farther...
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Seasonal Insights
The park is busiest on weekends, while weekdays offer a quieter experience. Late summer sees reduced waterfall flow, as noted by one user: 'End of summer waterfalls will be pretty dry.' Cold months...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'Bathrooms were very basic and full of creepy crawlers! But hey, it's camping, what did you expect?' - Heather Martin
2. 'Campsites were decent with a level pad to pitch a tent.' - Matt Ward
3....
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Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 10–17 are noted for privacy, while sites 1–5 and 18–20 are closer to parking and restrooms. Campsite 19 is highlighted for its seclusion and stream access.
Accessibility Features
The park is ADA accessible, with facilities accommodating individuals with disabilities. However, no specific reviews from users with disabilities are provided.
Pet-Friendly Features
The park is dog-friendly, with pets allowed in the campground. No specific user experiences related to pets are noted.
Last updated August 10, 2025